14,000+ mobile phone thefts since 2023 in Southwark – Lib Dem FOI reveals

A freedom of information request from the Liberal Democrats has revealed that over 14,000 thefts from the person have involved a mobile phone since 2023.  

This comes after Liberal Democrat Cllr Irina Von Wiese revealed that she had her phone stolen outside of Labour-run Southwark’s own council offices earlier this year.  

Previous statistics had shown that areas in Southwark like Borough and London Bridge have some of the highest rates of phone snatching in London.  

The statistics reveal the extent to which crime has gotten out of control in Southwark under a Labour Mayor and Council. The Liberal Democrats had previously criticised the Mayor for closing every 24/7 front counter in Southwark (breaking a key manifesto pledge) and slashing police services.  

The Labour council has also come under attack for failing to deliver the new police hub in Rotherhithe that was promised to residents as part of the Canada Water Masterplan, after the existing base in Seven Islands Leisure Centre was closed.  

 Commenting, Southwark Liberal Democrat Group Leader Cllr Victor Chamberlain said:  

“These statistics show that Southwark is not safer after 16 years of local Labour rule, or after a decade of Sadiq Khan’s failed leadership of the Met. Too many residents will know exactly the powerlessness you feel when your phone is stolen – and the responsibility lies squarely with Labour.  

Liberal Democrats want to see a return to real community policing, double local community safety wardens, and more CCTV. We also would open five more youth centres across the borough to give our young people more opportunities and stop them falling victims of crime and criminal gangs in the first place."